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Psoriasis affects about three percent of the United States population. It is a chronic skin condition that results in itchy, scaly, dry, flaky, inflamed, and red patches on the skin. It appears on any part of the body, more commonly on arms, knees, scalp, back, and neck. This condition is mainly triggered by factors such as emotional stress, sunburn, dry skin, smoking, alcohol consumption, bacterial or viral infections, environmental triggers, and certain medications such as beta-blockers, lithium, malarial preventives, and ibuprofen. Besides, it becomes worse in people with weak immunity and tends to run in families. Unluckily, psoriasis can’t be cured totally, but you can control the flare-ups of psoriasis up to 90 percent with natural remedies. Coconut oil is one such natural remedies. We, Effective Remedies, are going to reveal you the best ways of using coconut oil for psoriasis on the face, scalp, and nails. Read on to know more.
Top 3 Easy Ways How To Use Coconut Oil For Psoriasis On Face, Scalp, And Nails
I. Benefits
Before going to the detailed recipes to use coconut oil for psoriasis treatment, let’s discover the ingredients used in these DIY recipes and their benefits:
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is rich in saturated fats that can help the skin to release anti-inflammatory hormones. As a result, it reduces the inflammation caused due to psoriasis[1]. It also exhibits monoglyceride that is flooded with antimicrobial and antiseptic abilities. It can inhibit treat bacterial, fungal, and viral infections that can aggravate psoriasis condition. Coconut oil is also full of medium-chain fatty acids, which help to moisturize the flaky and dry skin at the affected region. It additionally aids in maintaining the skin younger, healthier, and nourished.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil comes with the multidirectional antimicrobial properties, making it an ideal solution for combating psoriasis. Along with that, it can facilitate the recovery of the affected region, thanks to its healing and anti-inflammatory characteristics[2]. This oil is also beneficial for soothing redness, itching, and swelling associated with psoriasis.
- Turmeric: Curcumin housed in turmeric comprises immunomodulatory agents which narrow the immune responses resulting in psoriasis flare-ups. According to a recent study, turmeric contains anti-inflammatory properties that may treat psoriasis effectively[3].
- Oregano Oil: The oil is chock-full of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties[4], which are effective for treating circulation problems and skin conditions such as warts, psoriasis, rashes, eczema, and infected wounds. More importantly, the thymol present in it contains immune-boosting properties that help improve a weak immunity, a possible cause of psoriasis.
II. Recipes
Below are some of the recipes on how to use coconut oil for psoriasis. They are easy to prepare and follow at home.
Recipe 1: Coconut Oil For Psoriasis On Face
Things You Need
- Coconut oil – one tablespoon
- Turmeric – ½ teaspoon
What To Do
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Combine the above elements well. Begin to spread the mixture on your affected areas and leave your application for roughly 20 minutes. After that, rinse the area with water and pat dry. Follow the method every day to eliminate psoriasis flare-ups.
Recipe 2: Coconut Oil For Psoriasis On Scalp
Things You Need
- Tea tree oil – 5 to 10 drops
- Coconut oil – 2 to 3 tablespoons
What To Do
Just combine coconut oil and tea tree oil thoroughly. Apply it to your affected areas and leave your application overnight. In the morning, rinse it off with the help of mild shampoo and water. For quick effects, repeat the procedure daily.
Recipe 3: Coconut Oil For Psoriasis On Nails
Things You Need
- Melted coconut oil – one tablespoon
- Oregano oil – 3 to 4 drops
What To Do
Mix the oregano oil in the melted coconut oil. Start massaging this blend into your affected nails. Keep it on for about 10 minutes before using lukewarm water to rinse it off and pat dry thoroughly. Redo the process twice a day for several weeks.
III. Risks
- Coconut oil usually does not worsen psoriasis, but it may do the opposite in some cases. Those who are allergic to coconuts can be at risk. Conduct a patch test on a small region and avoid its application further if the application is worsening.
- You can be at risk of developing psoriasis outbreak even if you aren’t allergic to coconuts. Since coconut oil helps to eliminate the current flakes, but it does not banish the new ones.
- Always speak to your doctor before using coconut oil since it can interfere with commercial psoriasis treatments.
IV. Tips and Precautions
- If you are allergic to coconut oil, avoid using it.
- Before trying regular treatments, do a patch test.
- Refrain from scratching psoriasis affected regions since it can worsen it.
- Avoid soaps, lotions, and shampoos that consist of harsh chemicals such as lauryl sulfate and paraben.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Reduce red meat, poultry, and pork.
- Exercise regularly and eat a nutritional diet to strengthen your immunity.
- Instead of using chemical-based moisturizers, you should use coconut oil, cocoa butter or Shea butter to moisturize your skin.
- It is advisable to consume probiotics, foods rich in antioxidants, high fiber foods, zinc, raw dairy, vitamin A, vitamin D, and omega-3 supplements, as they help to boost up your immune system and prevent the psoriasis flare-ups.
Have you ever tried coconut oil for psoriasis treatment? Do you know other ways to use coconut oil for psoriasis on face, scalp, and nails? Share your experience, queries, and suggestions in the comments box below. All of the contents provided in this article are for informational & educational purposes. We recommend you consult a healthcare professional to determine which method is appropriate for you.
Read more: 16 Best Ways To Get Beautiful Skin Naturally. This article was medically reviewed/fact checked by Sarah Brewer MSc, MA (Cantab), MB, BChir, RNutr, MBANT, CNHC.